How to Address Your Layoff in Your Job Search

I'm trying to apply to positions at a company that I was laid off from 8 months ago along with 300 other people. I'm not sure how to begin my cover letter. This company now has lots of positions open for hire and several are the same job types that I was laid off from. All along, they told us lay-offs that we were welcome to re-apply to any openings in the future that we may be interested in. I have applied to many positions at that company during the last 8 months. I know that age is not supposed to matter but I can't help but wonder if my age might be a deciding factor against giving me any interviews. I am 62 years old. I was a hard worker and did my job well. I never caused any problems and had a good performance record.

My cover letter starts off with saying "During the thirteen years of my work experience at (company name), I have benefited from a wealth of varied experiences. These experiences and knowledge have provided me with a versatile and adaptable skill set." I'm thinking this statement may be a problem. I have indeed accomplished many different skills while working at that company and I want to express that I do have many skills, but I wonder if my beginning statement that indicates that the last company I worked for was their company might cause them to think there may be a red flag concerning me.

The company changed hands recently and there are several jobs open that I am well qualified to do. This company has sectors all over the country and is very big. They have great benefits and they are the highest paying company in my area. I very much want to go back to work there again.

Norma Pennell of VA 11:37AM July 12, 2011